Space utilisation

Space Allocation Policy

All University space, whether leased or owned, is available for allocation for the purpose of supporting the University's strategic priorities. Space allocations are based on operational requirements and demonstrated need, rather than on position, title or historical precedent. Space allocations are not permanent and are subject to change in order to support and align with the strategic priorities of the University.

Space charging procedures

The Space Charging Procedures (PDF) version 2.01, available from the UC Policy Library, outlines the requirements for space charging and describes the methodology for calculating the charges. The current policy is to be reviewed in 2017.

Space audits

Space usage verification

These are conducted annually to confirm space allocations across Colleges, departments and support service units as at 31 March each year. The data, once reviewed and verified by group is used by Financial Services to calculate the annual space charge. Desktop audits are done each following quarter to track any significant allocation changes as we continue to refurbish and build new spaces.

Room utilisation survey

These are conducted annually over a one week period early Semester two to identify utilisation of teaching and learning spaces, seminar and meeting rooms, and postgraduate spaces. The data collected assists in tracking how well spaces are being used, where the amounts of the different types of space may require adjustment and is also used to plan future scenarios for teaching, research and postgraduate spaces.

TEFMA benchmarking survey

Conducted annually by the Tertiary Education Facilities Management Association (TEFMA) the survey collates data from all Australian universities for FM overheads, space metrics, security, energy usage, capital investment and staffing across all types. This data assists in identifying trends in operational costs, expansion/contraction of space types, energy efficiencies achieved or not achieved.

COMP - Campus Occupancy Master Plan

The purpose of the COMP is to provide a master plan that identifies the preferred locations of UC Colleges and service units aligned to the Campus Master Plan. This is currently being developed by external consultants with the objectives of:

Identifying spaces that are of the right type, size and place for the occupants

Identifying new locations for the current occupants of Kirkwood and Dovedale Villages

Mapping the next level of detail of the Campus Master Plan

Establishing a migration plan to move from current locations to preferred